Key points
- Veterans and their families can study for free.
- The state covers the costs of vocational training, retraining and master’s degree programmes.
- The funds are transferred directly to educational institutions.
- People with disabilities resulting from the war and the families of those killed are also eligible to participate.
- The programme is designed to support integration and employment.
Ukraine has a state-run professional development programme for veterans and their family members. It enables participants to learn a new trade free of charge, enhance their skills, or continue their studies at higher education institutions. The initiative aims to support their transition to civilian life and expand their opportunities in the labour market.
Those eligible to participate in the programme include combatants after discharge from service, people with war-related disabilities, family members of fallen defenders, and individuals with special merits to the state. Family members of veterans may also join, thereby broadening access to education for a wider range of people.
The programme provides funding for several types of study. These include vocational training and retraining for those wishing to change career paths, further training to develop existing skills, and acquiring a new specialism based on prior education. Master’s-level study is also available for bachelor’s degree holders seeking to deepen their knowledge. Payment is made directly by the state to the educational institution’s account.
To take advantage of the programme, you must choose a field of study and an educational institution, submit an application to the department responsible for veterans’ policy at your place of residence or registration, undergo career guidance, and receive a referral. Once a tripartite agreement has been concluded between the applicant, the educational institution, and the relevant authority, you may begin your studies.
The initiative creates additional opportunities for the professional development of veterans and their families, and promotes retraining and increased competitiveness in the Ukrainian labour market.
Read also:
23 women veterans receive €7,000 business grants through the Ukrainian Red Cross REDpreneur Women programme
